What to do when you get to Russell Village? Take the passenger ferry to Paihia, play a little golf at nearby ranges, go for a walk on any number of the beautiful tracks or just watch the sunsets from the Duke of Marlborough while sipping on a glass of local wine.
Maybe you would like to take a boat trip to The Hole in the Rock, a sailing trip around the islands, catch your own fish or partake in any of the many local attractions and experiences.
Whatever your interests are, the Bay of Islands has something for you or perhaps we could take you out of your comfort zone and you could try something new and adventurous.
Below are just some of the many things you can experience when you visit:
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
This is a photo of my experience at Waitangi Treaty Grounds. I am the one with the aqua jacket!
Waitangi will take you on a journey of discovery through Aotearoa New Zealand’s most important historic site. Explore the two new contemporary museums, Te Rau Aroha museum, Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi, the carving studio, new exhibition in the Treaty House, Te Whare Rūnanga, traditional Māori waka, and enjoy a full programme of tours and cultural performances.
Some nights you can experience a traditional Maori hangi, the traditional way that the Māori cooked their food.
Check for details on the link below,
Chris Moses
See MoreBird Watching
This is our dog "Sassy" watching the ducks from the boat.
Many birds are attracted to our gardens at Stella. Look for fantails, weka, kereru (NZ pigeon), tui, kingfisher on the property and listen for the kiwi and ruru (NZ owl also called morepork) in the evenings
There are many native birds in the Bay of Islands. Project Island Song is the Bay of Islands’ wildlife sanctuary. The seven main islands in the eastern Bay of Islands have been pest mammal free since 2009, and the natural eco-systems are being restored. We are bringing back birdsong to the islands, note by note.
See MoreDine at the Historic Duke of Marlborough
We often treat ourselves to a special night dining in or just having a glass of wine and watching the sun go down. This is one of many photos I have taken from The Duke of Marlborough.
Treat yourselves and book a table
See MoreDolphin Watching
It doesn't matter how many times I see the dolphins it puts me in my happy place. This photo was taken off Tapeka Beach, where Kelvin and I live.
Fishing
We love to fish. This is a kingfish that I caught on 6kg line in the world famous "Yellowtail" competition held at the Russell Swordfish Club annually. I didn't win any prizes but enjoyed the comp.
If you want to go on a fishing charter, contact me and I will give you recommendations.
Wineries
We also love to drink wine. This is Kelvin enjoying a drop of Omata rose. We have two lovely local wineries. Omata Wines is on the main road when you are travelling from the car ferry to Russell. In the summer months you can taste the wines and choose to eat a beautiful platter or a wood fired pizza.
On the coast road heading back from Russell to Whangarei is Paroa Bay Winery. It is only a 15 minute drive from Russell. Taste their wines or have a special meal at their restaurant "Sage"
Cape Reinga
This trip is a big day but worth it if you have the time. Either drive yourself or take a tour but be prepared for an early start and to be out all day. That is me at the lighthouse
Sand Dunes
You can do this while you are up at Cape Reinga. Most were more successful than me
